The Actor and the Text

Kingston University

Course Description

  • Course Name

    The Actor and the Text

  • Host University

    Kingston University

  • Location

    London, England

  • Area of Study

    Theater

  • Language Level

    Taught In English

  • Course Level Recommendations

    Lower

    ISA offers course level recommendations in an effort to facilitate the determination of course levels by credential evaluators.We advice each institution to have their own credentials evaluator make the final decision regrading course levels.

    Hours & Credits

  • Credits

    4
  • Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
    4
  • Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
    0
  • Overview

    Course Content:

    Students explore fundamental components of drama such as plot, action, character and
    dialogue and examine ways in which each is presented in a series of written
    playtexts. These plays are studied in detail and each is identified as a pretext for
    performance. Students are introduced to ways of interrogating the texts and develop a
    deeper knowledge and understanding of the relationship between what is written on the
    page and what is presented on the stage.

    Topics covered include:
    ? Introduction to key concepts in the study of playtexts informed by the
    work of, for example, Wallis and Shepherd
    ? Close study of a range of playtexts both on the page and in production
    ? Approaches to actor training and psycho-physical preparation such as those developed by Meyerhold, Stanislavski and Grotowski
    ? Concepts, principles and techniques including neutrality, energy, rhythm
    presence and focus central to the work of, for example, Barba,
    Meyerhold and Lecoq
    ? Exploration of the relationship between the actor and the character
    informed by, for example, Stanislavski, Brecht and Chekhov
    ? Importance of improvisation and play as demonstrated in the work of, for
    example, Copeau and Lecoq
    ? Development of academic skills related to writing reflective essays

    Autumn Semester:
    Students explore fundamental components of drama such as plot, action, character and
    dialogue and examine ways in which each is presented in a series of written
    playtexts. Students explore the same playtexts practically alongside a range of differing
    acting methodologies.

    Spring Semester:
    Students explore fundamental components of drama such as plot, action, character and
    dialogue and examine ways in which each is presented in a series of written
    playtexts. Students explore the same playtexts practically alongside a range of differing
    acting methodologies.

    Teaching: Lectures, Seminars, and Practical Workshops
    Assessment:
    STUDY OPTION 1:
    ? 500 word Essay
    ? 8-12 min Group Practical
    STUDY OPTION 2 OR STUDY OPTION 3: 10 minute group performance from a playtext

    Study Option 1 = Whole Year
    Study Option 2 = Autumn
    Study Option 3 = Spring/summer

Course Disclaimer

Courses and course hours of instruction are subject to change.

Eligibility for courses may be subject to a placement exam and/or pre-requisites.

Some courses may require additional fees.

Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.

Please reference fall and spring course lists as not all courses are taught during both semesters.

Please note that some courses with locals have recommended prerequisite courses. It is the student's responsibility to consult any recommended prerequisites prior to enrolling in their course.

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